Dirt roads and trails in the Eldorado National Forest that are subject to wet-weather seasonal closures reopened Saturday.

The seasonal closure, normally from Jan. 1 through March 31, is designed to protect roadbeds and watersheds from damage, and to protect water quality, according to a Forest Service news release. To maintain flexibility, the timing of the dirt road closure is based on current conditions each year, which may cause it to go into effect early or to be extended. Because of heavy rains in November, this year’s seasonal closure began Dec. 1.

“Melting snow will continue to create moist conditions in some areas, so it’s important to use good judgment before driving on dirt roads,” Laurence Crabtree, forest supervisor, said in a written statement. “Visitors will still be responsible for any resource damage they cause.”

The seasonal closure applies to routes identified on motor vehicle use maps that are available for free at all Eldorado National Forest offices and on the forest website.

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Aside from the seasonal closures, other sites were closed because of a series of heavy storms during the winter. Storm damage is still being assessed and, in some cases, the extent of damage won’t be known until the snow melts, the news release said.